Last updated on 2025-11-18
Program overview
In the Honours Arts and Business program at Waterloo, students gain expertise in two areas: their chosen Arts major and essential business skills. This unique program allows students to earn a Bachelor of Arts while exploring their passions through a variety of subjects. With the flexibility to select from 28 majors, students can tailor their education to fit their interests. The program also offers the opportunity to enhance their degree with a second honours major or a minor, ensuring a well-rounded academic experience. Students can choose to complete the program in the regular four-year system or opt for a co-op option, which integrates valuable work experience into their studies.
Program structure
The Honours Arts and Business program is designed to provide a comprehensive education that combines both arts and business disciplines. The program length is four years for the regular study option, while the co-op option extends the duration by adding significant work experience. Key features of the program structure include:
- Choice of 28 majors in humanities, social sciences, languages, and fine or performing arts.
- Integration of 14 business courses covering essential topics such as accounting, management, and marketing.
- Co-op option available, allowing students to alternate between study and paid work terms, gaining practical experience.
- Flexibility to add minors or a second major to customize the degree further.
Students typically begin their studies with foundational courses in both arts and business, followed by a mix of major-specific and elective courses in subsequent years. The co-op work-study sequence starts in the second year, providing students with real-world experience that complements their academic learning.
Featured Experiences
The Honours Arts and Business program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance the educational journey:
- Co-op Program: Students can participate in one of the world's leading co-op programs, gaining relevant paid work experience while studying.
- Work-Study Sequence: Students alternate between academic terms and co-op placements, integrating classroom learning with practical application.
- Study Abroad: Opportunities to study internationally, broadening cultural perspectives and academic experiences.
- Small Class Sizes: First-year courses often feature smaller class sizes, fostering collaboration and personalized learning.
- Co-registration: Students can complete their degree through St. Jerome's University, a smaller academic community on campus.
Career Options
Graduates of the Honours Arts and Business program have a wide range of career options available to them in Canada. Some potential job roles include:
- Donor Member Relations Coordinator: Manage relationships with donors and members, ensuring effective communication and engagement.
- HR Coordinator: Support human resources functions, including recruitment, employee relations, and training initiatives.
- Economist: Analyze economic data and trends to provide insights for government or private sector decision-making.
- Marketing Specialist: Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote products or services effectively.
- Public Relations Officer: Manage public image and communications for organizations, crafting press releases and handling media inquiries.
With a strong foundation in both arts and business, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in various fields, including business, government, marketing, project management, communications, law, and public relations.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
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